What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nest
Example
The mother bird built a nest on the tree branch. [nest: noun]
Example
I love to nestle in my bed with a good book. [nestle: verb]
Example
The set of bowls were nested inside each other for easy storage. [nested: past participle]
den
Example
The bear retreated to its den for hibernation. [den: noun]
Example
After a long day at work, I like to unwind in my den. [den: noun]
Example
The basement was converted into a den for movie nights. [den: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nest is more commonly used than den in everyday language, especially when referring to a cozy and comfortable place for humans to rest. However, den is still a common word, especially when referring to animal shelters or specific areas in a house.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nest and den?
Both nest and den are versatile words that can be used in various formality levels, from casual to formal, depending on the context and tone of the sentence.
